Physical exercise and cognition in older adults, a scientific approach scanty reported in Latin America and Caribbean populations

• Published in: Frontiers in sports and active living Vol. 6; p. 1368593
• Main Authors: Jiménez-Maldonado, Alberto, Rentería, Iván, Johnson, David K, Moncada-Jiménez, José, García-Suárez, Patricia C
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Switzerland Frontiers Media S.A 28-03-2024
• Subjects: executive functions; general cognition; Latin America; older adults; physical exercise; Sports and Active Living; older adults; physical exercise; executive functions; Latin America; general cognition
• ISSN: 2624-9367; 2624-9367
• DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1368593

The advancement of public services, including the increased accessibility of health services, has led to a rise in life expectancy globally. As a result, aging populations are becoming more prevalent, raising concerns about cognitive decline. Fortunately, non-pharmacological methods, such as physical exercise, have been shown to mitigate the effects of aging on the brain. In this perspective article, we examined meta-analyses on the impact of physical exercise on cognition in older adults. The results indicate that combined exercise (i.e., aerobic plus strength training), has a significant positive effect on overall cognition and executive function. However, we found a lack of scientific studies on this topic in Latin American and Caribbean countries. Therefore, there is a pressing need for research to identify the feasibility of physical exercise interventions to improve cognitive skills in older adults from these regions.